The Kansas Silver Haired Legislature wrapped up a challenging 2026 legislative session marked by close votes, veto overrides, and significant advocacy efforts on behalf of older Kansans.
While several concerning measures – including changes to Medicaid and voter registration laws – ultimately became law, KSHL’s advocacy helped remove more harmful provisions and ensured that voices of older Kansans were heard directly by lawmakers. In several cases, final decisions came down to the narrowest of margins.
KSHL also helped prevent additional restrictions on voting access and is now positioned to play a role in shaping future senior transportation efforts. KSHL is now communicating its concerns to the administrators of the Rural Health Transformation Grant for Kansas to improve health accessibility and outcomes for older Kansans in rural areas.
Although property tax relief legislation did not pass this session, and medical cannabis proposals did not advance, both remain important issues moving forward.
“The reality is, much of this session was about stopping or improving legislation,” said KSHL Speaker of the House Leroy Burton. “And in that work, our delegates made a real difference.”
Now, KSHL is turning its focus to the future – and is asking older Kansans to help lead the way. As planning begins for the 2027 legislative session, KSHL is inviting seniors across the state to share the issues that matter most to them. From healthcare and affordability to transportation, housing, and voting access, input from Kansans will help shape the organization’s next set of legislative priorities.
“KSHL exists to represent the voices of older Kansans,” Burton said. “And the best way to do that is to hear directly from those we serve.”
Seniors who would like to share concerns or suggest priorities are asked to contact Burton at 316-670-4127 or leburton@cox.net, or Chuck Schmidt, KSHL Speaker Pro Tem, at 620-330-4576 or cschmidt3131@gmail.com. For more information, see www.kansas-shl.org.
